Former Sen. Harry F. Byrd Jr., the Democrat-turned-independent who began his career as a staunch segregationist and preached fiscal restraint in Washington long before it became fashionable, has died. He was 98.Full story

The former president, who lost his own daughter to leukemia decades ago, spoke to his granddaughter, TODAY’s Jenna Bush Hager, about shaving his head in honor of a little boy with leukemia, saying he hoped to bring “a little happiness” to the toddler.

Former President George H. W. Bush made headlines earlier this week when he shaved his head in support of a little boy battling leukemia.Touched by 2-year-old Patrick, the son of a member of his Secret Service detail, Bush was inspired to make a decision that surprised even those closest to him: He Full story

Both George H.W. Bush and his son, George W. Bush, have announced they will not be attending Obama’s inauguration due to concerns about the 41st president’s health. George H.W. Bush was recently hospitalized for bronchitis. NBC’s Brian Williams reports.

Related Photos

Two-year-old Patrick sits on former President George H. W. Bush's lap on July 24 in Walker's Point. President George H. W. Bush this week joined members of his Secret Service detail in shaving his head to show his support for the two year-old son of a detail member who is being treated for leukemia

Former U.S. President George H.W. Bush is pictured in Walker's Point, Maine in this July 24, 2013 handout photo after joining members of his Secret Service detail in shaving his head to show support for Patrick, (surname being withheld per family's request), the two year-old son of a detail member w

U.S. President Barack Obama and former President George H. W. Bush applaud during an event to honor the winner of the 5,000th Daily Point of Light Award at the White House in Washington July 15, 2013 REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque (UNITED STATES - Tags: POLITICS TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY)